Hallucinogen Use in College Students: Current Trends and Consequences of Use

Hallucinogen use is rising among college students, partly due to trends like microdosing and beliefs that these drugs improve mood. While some studies suggest therapeutic benefits for psychological disorders when used as adjunctive treatments, recreational use in uncontrolled doses or with drug mixing is dangerous. Students with mental health disorders may have symptoms masked by hallucinogen use, delaying treatment and risking serious consequences. Long-term use can lead to tolerance or hallucinogen persisting perception disorder. This article reviews current information on hallucinogen use as it pertains to college students.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Hallucinogens are a drug class that is growing in popularity with college students. Recent experimental trends, such as microdosing, have helped promote the use of hallucinogens on campus, and students may be tempted to use these substances due to their beliefs about the drugs’ positive effects on mood. Although hallucinogens are not currently an established form of medical therapy, studies have shown that they have significant benefits as adjunctive treatments for psychological disorders. However, the recreational use of these drugs in college students often occurs in uncontrolled doses or with drug mixing, which is often dangerous. Furthermore, students with mental health disorders may have their symptoms masked by hallucinogenic drug use, which could delay treatment and have serious consequences. Long-term use of these drugs may also result in tolerance or hallucinogen persisting perception disorder. This article attempts to review current information regarding hallucinogen use and how it applies to the college population.